Abstract
Besides a typical energetic molecule, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) acts also as neurotransmitter in the nervous system. ATP can be degraded by ectonucleotidases to adenosine and inosine. The mechanical stimulation of the acupuncture needle in muscular or subcutaneous tissues promotes the release of ATP and other purines which produces an antinociceptive effect mediated by adenosine receptors (P1). The efficacy and duration of the effects of the acupuncture are improved by increasing the adenosine synthesis or reducing its degradation by pharmacological manipulations. Caffeine is a blocker of P1 receptors. The dose of caffeine contained in a cup of coffee is enough to reduce the antinociceptive effect of the acupuncture. Therefore it is important to take in account this in order to evaluate one acupuncture treatment.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
